Changing China

Basketball gold would cap Spain’s superb sporting year

Spanish sport is living a golden age, a magical year or a unique two months, depending on how long a view you’re taking. But will it continue on into Beijing?

Rafael Nadal’s victory over Nicolas Lapentti in Cincinnati means the 22-year-old is now certain to depose Roger Federer as world number one in tennis by August 18 at the latest.

Nadal’s twin victories in the French Open and at Wimbledon were just two of the highlights in a remarkable sporting summer for his country.

Carlos Sastre won the Tour de France last month, giving Spain their third victory in three years. Alberto Contador, last year’s winner, followed up his triumph with success in the Giro d’Italia.

The biggest success of all was Spain’s victory at Euro 2008, their first major tournament title in 44 years.

Now, there’s no way Spain are going to finish top of the medals table in Beijing. Sports minister Jaime Lissavetzky recently said the target was six golds at best.

Those medal hopes include Nadal, of course, as well as athletes like double champion Gervasio Deferr in gymnastics, synchronised swimmers Andrea Fuentes and Gemma Mengual and the walker Paquillo Fernandez.